European Grand Prix not threatened despite the intense conflict in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is ready to host Formula 1 Grand Prix for the first time this year, despite intense fighting in the region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

After more than 20 years, the fight between Armenian separatists and Azerbaijan regular army forces continues. On the previous weekend, more than 30 people were killed in the region 250 km west of the capital. But, despite the heavy fighting, the organizers of the street race in Baku are confident that the race will go on according to schedule (in the middle of June).

Preparations for the street race in Baku

No reason for panic

“The state of Azerbaijan is showing goodwill and declares a ceasefire. Any fighting in our country has no effect on any sports events. Azerbaijan always keeps athletes, tourists, fans and all participants safe at any events taking place in the country and does it with a highest standard and measures of precaution,” says the statement of the Azerbaijan government.

The 2016 European Grand Prix was held 22 times and Baku street circuit, probably the fastest street circuit in the world, will be the sixth host of the race. Previously, Nurburgring organized the race on 12 occasions, five times the race was held at Valencia street circuit, Brands Hatch and Jerez Circuit hosted the race twice while Donington park was only once a home of the European Grand Prix.

For now, the only change is the kick-off time, after local promoter asked to move the start of the race from 6PM to 5PM local time. The decision was made with a wish to avoid the time clash with 24 Hours of Le Mans.